Home Assistant Connect AUX-2 is a $69 / €59 device designed to bring older or otherwise disconnected equipment into a Home Assistant smart home. It combines audio streaming, two serial connections, Bluetooth proxy functionality, and a USB port for adapters such as Z-Wave or Zigbee radios. It supports Power over Ethernet as well as USB power and Wi-Fi, and includes a Grove connector for adding sensors. The central idea is to extend the useful life of existing devices, replace unreliable or privacy-invasive apps and cloud services, and avoid unnecessary upgrades.
For audio, AUX-2 can feed digital or analog sound to older amplifiers, while serial control lets Home Assistant manage functions such as power, volume, and input selection. With Music Assistant and its Sendspin protocol, it can also synchronize playback across different speaker brands. Serial connections can control compatible TVs, solar equipment, and other devices; RS-232 is built in, while an inexpensive USB adapter can connect RS-485/Modbus equipment. The device can place Z-Wave adapters in a better location over a network connection; Zigbee also works but needs more testing, and Thread is not reliable over the network. Its Bluetooth proxy starts discovering nearby devices when added to Home Assistant. AUX-2 is unlocked for custom firmware, though its many connection types may require suitable cables and configuration.
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